Bomkai Coastal Shirt

Inspiration

This relaxed-fit men’s shirt draws visual and conceptual inspiration from the Bomkai sari of Odisha, known for its extra warp motifs. The fabric is naturally dyed in oceanic indigo shades, creating a serene ombré effect that mimics the movement of sea waves.

The garment is elevated with Madhubani-inspired hand-painted coastal icons  including turtles, crabs, palm trees, and fish illustrated along the hemline, cuffs, and sleeves, offering a playful, artistic contrast to the structured shell motifs.

 Design Aim

To design a versatile vacation shirt for men of all ages  combining the soul of handloom textiles with the casual ease of coastal living. This shirt reflects comfort, culture, and calmness, ideal for leisure travel, creative work settings, or casual outings.

Fabric Type

• Fabric Base: Inspired by Bomkai weaving  translated into printed motifs using extra warp-style shell elements

• Dye: Naturally dyed with plant-based indigo for a wave-like ombré blue
• Surface Detailing: Hand-painted coastal motifs in Madhubani line style using eco-friendly white pigment

Target Market

• Geography: Urban luxury consumers in Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, Milan, Tokyo, and Barcelona
• Psychographic:
• • Men with refined taste in slow fashion, looking for distinctive casualwear
  • Well-travelled individuals who prefer craft-led, sustainable wardrobe pieces for getaways, creative workspaces, and artisan lifestyle experiences
  • Looks for clothing that combines relaxation, minimalism, and culture
• Style Influences: Loewe menswear, Bode, Sabyasachi resortwear, Japanese minimal craftwear
• Retail Range: ₹4,000 – ₹6,500

Trend Inspiration

1. Rewilding Rituals- Focuses on reconnecting with nature through outdoor escapes and beachside retreats. The marine motifs and natural dye palette bring this ritual of coastal calm alive in menswear.

2. Fluid Functionality- This shirt transitions from vacation to café to casual office  a reflection of flexible, all-day dressing. Its soft structure, breathable fabric, and button-up versatility support this fluid use.

 3. Craft Revival- The garment embodies the revival of lesser-seen crafts Bomkai weaving language reinterpreted, and Madhubani motifs hand-rendered with care. A storytelling piece.

4. Nature’s Resonance (Color Trend)- Indigo and off-white mirror WGSN's nature-rooted palette. These tones are calming, elemental, and sustainably sourced, appealing to conscious luxury buyers.

Sourcing & Costing